On August 2 and August 8, UNHCR, the Migration and Citizenship Service (MCS) of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and the Unified Social Service (USS) of the Ministry of Labour and Social Affairs (MLSA) organized a joint training to facilitate responsible transition of refugee integration and social protection component from MCS to USS.
The event brought together total 55 USS staff, including from all 49 territorial centres of the USS and the Department of Social Work and Social Services of the USS. It was series of two training conducted on 2 August and 9 August covering all staff of 49 territorial centres of the USS.
The training was aimed to sensitize the USS staff on refugee protection and support the transition of social component from the MCS to the USS. It was jointly facilitated by the representatives from the UNHCR, MCS and the Department of Social Work and Social Services of the USS. It was also attended by UNHCR partner NGOs Mission Armenia and Armenian Association of Social Workers.
The sessions covered a comprehensive range of topics essential for enhancing refugee protection and integration. Participants engaged in discussions on international and national refugee protection standards, the specific functions of MCS and USS, and the details of Armenia’s temporary protection status.
A major component of the training was the transition of refugee integration and social protection responsibilities from MCS to MLSA and USS. This transition aims to streamline and improve the delivery of social services to refugees, addressing both their immediate needs and long-term integration goals. The training highlighted key challenges and opportunities associated with this shift, emphasizing the critical role of USS in managing the integration and reintegration of refugees and returnees.
The sessions also included an overview of government social assistance programs available to refugees, detailing procedures, eligibility criteria, and challenges faced. Participants received valuable insights into UNHCR’s consultations with refugees regarding inclusion and integration challenges, and strategies for effective case management and collaboration with support networks.
Ms. Ani Chilingaryan, First Deputy Head of USS, emphasized the importance of the training, stating, “Our objective is to equip social workers with the essential tools and knowledge needed to effectively support refugees during this transition. Their role is vital in facilitating refugees’ integration into Armenian society and ensuring they access the necessary services.”
UNHCR’s involvement in this capacity-building initiative underscores its commitment to upholding global standards in refugee protection. Ms. Naira Marutyan, Protection Associate at UNHCR, remarked, “Building the capacity of local social workers is crucial for ensuring that refugees receive the comprehensive support necessary for rebuilding their lives.”
Participants feedback highlighted the training’s effectiveness. A social worker from Yerevan noted, “The informative sessions provided us with a deeper understanding of the challenges refugees face and how we can better support them through our roles.“ The event concluded with a wrap-up session, evaluation, and discussions on future steps.
UNHCR values its robust partnership with MCS and USS and is committed to continuing this collaborative effort to build the capacity of USS staff in refugee protection and assistance. Social workers play a crucial role in upholding the dignity of refugees and asylum seekers, by providing essential services, case management and their work spans various domains of integration such as general protection, support to persons with specific needs (older persons, persons with disabilities and other specific needs), social protection, and referrals for specialized services. UNHCR is dedicated to supporting the USS staff as they strive to ensure successful integration for all refugees.
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